A Place for Everyone

Discover the open-minded charm that’s made the Saugatuck-Douglas area a favorite destination for many in the LGBTQ community. Our deep roots in the creative arts have grown into an accepting culture where you’ll find people from all walks of life mingling comfortably on the beach or out on the town.

On the Go

This area is known as a mecca for the arts, with dozens of serious artists working and living here and hundreds more represented in our fine art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll through Saugatuck, Douglas, or Fennville to explore on your own, or use our Galleries directory to pinpoint the businesses that cater to your tastes.
Is spending time in the great outdoors your idea of quality time? You’ve come to the right place. Edged by a backdrop of rolling dunes, the Lake Michigan beach is stunning in every season, and a network of trails will get your heart beating and reward you with natural beauty, solitude, and incomparable views.

Shop & Eat

This is not your standard mall-fare. Divided by the river, our two distinct downtowns will entice you with one-of-a-kind shops, many owned or staffed by LGBTQ folks. You’ll find unique clothing, Michigan-made foods, home décor, and other treasures to remind you of your trip.
Home to cookbook authors, award-winning chefs, and a community of craft beer, cider, and wine makers, this area knows how to please your palate. Book a table for two at any restaurant, and you’ll find friendly service, a charming atmosphere, and tasty food – often flavored with locally harvested produce. Then take in a little nightlife – whether it’s a show at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, karaoke and drinks at a downtown bar, dancing, or a night at the cabaret.

Our Hospitality

From romantic inns and B&Bs to hotels, camping, and cottages, you’ll find the perfect accommodations for any style, occasion, or budget, including several lodging establishments that are LGBTQ-owned. Whether you prefer to be at the beach, steps away from downtown, or nestled away into a quiet spot of your own, we’ll treat you to a cozy night away with your special someone.

With delicious food and drink, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, the arts, historic attractions, unique shopping districts, and an open-minded community that makes Saugatuck and Douglas two of the most gay friendly small towns in the country.

Discover world-renowned beaches, such as Oval Beach: Nestled between the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan and our gorgeous sand dune forest, our pristine beaches provide days of sun and sport, breathtaking sunsets, and evenings of delight and wonder. With accolades including being named one of the top 25 beaches in the world by Condé Nast and one of the top two beaches in the USA by National Geographic Traveler, Oval Beach may easily become one of your favorite gay vacation spots.

Discover the shops and restaurants: With over 140 gay owned and LGBTQ friendly companies, the shopkeepers and staff of the businesses featured on this site are proud to be among the most welcoming of gay friendly travel destinations. So many unique shops and galleries, restaurants, and lodging options to choose from, you can find just about anything your heart desires, and some things you can’t find anywhere else.

Discover the arts. We’re called the “art coast of Michigan”, and for good reason: no matter how your tastes run, we have something here for you. We have several world-class galleries, artist studios, and museums waiting for your arrival. The world-renowned Ox-Bow art school is here, as well as summer stock theatre.

Discover the people. For decades, our residents have made Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan’s most gay friendly small towns by welcoming Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender visitors with open arms. We have LGBT Pride. We are proud of our reputation as a place where people from all walks of life can come and find themselves simply by being who they are.

Most importantly, thank you. Simply put, we wouldn’t be who we are without the continued support of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community, and so we work hard to make your visit as fun and memorable as possible. We know there are many reasons why you and thousands of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender persons choose Saugatuck and Douglas, Michigan, as your gay vacation spots every year, but there is only one reason why you keep coming back: you’re always welcome here!